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Norwich Today
By the People, for the People
State Department Ends Passport Processing at Nonprofit Libraries
The agency cites federal law prohibiting non-governmental organizations from collecting passport application fees.
Published on Feb. 15, 2026
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The U.S. State Department has ordered certain nonprofit public libraries to stop processing passport applications, ending a long-running service that librarians say has operated smoothly and served local needs for years. The agency cited federal law and regulations that 'clearly prohibit non‑governmental organizations' from collecting passport application fees, but did not explain why the issue has surfaced now or specify how many libraries were affected.
Why it matters
This change is likely to affect libraries that have become key local access points for in‑person passport applications, a role that has helped working families, rural residents, and people with language barriers. The State Department has defended its decision by noting that more than 7,500 passport acceptance facilities remain nationwide, but nonprofit libraries make up a significant portion of public libraries in several Northeastern states.
The details
The State Department began issuing cease-and-desist letters to not-for-profit libraries last year, informing them they were no longer authorized to participate in the Passport Acceptance Facility program. Data from the American Library Association shows that there are about 1,400 nonprofit libraries in the U.S. that could be affected by this change, accounting for about 15 percent of all libraries open to the public. The agency spokesman confirmed that government-run libraries would not be impacted by this change.
- The State Department began issuing cease-and-desist letters to not-for-profit libraries last year.
- Passport services ended at the Otis Library in Norwich, Connecticut in November after the order was issued.
The players
U.S. State Department
The federal agency that oversees passport applications and processing.
Cathleen Special
The executive director of the Otis Library in Norwich, Connecticut, where passport services ended in November after the State Department's order.
Marco Rubio
The Secretary of State.
What they’re saying
“In a time when demand for passports is surging, libraries are among the most accessible passport acceptance facilities, particularly for working families and rural residents.”
— Democratic and Republican members of Congress, from Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland (Letter to the Secretary of State)
“We still get calls daily seeking that service.”
— Cathleen Special, Executive Director, Otis Library (The Associated Press)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
